Ram Navami: Ayodhya celebrates Ram Lalla's first birthday since temple inauguration

PTC News Desk: Ayodhya is aglow with fervent celebrations as Ram Navami, the auspicious occasion marking Lord Ram's birth, takes center stage, especially significant this year as it coincides with the first birthday of Ram Lalla since the opening of the temple doors in January.

The city, steeped in devotion and history, is witnessing a spectacle of religious fervour, with elaborate preparations and festivities. At the forefront is the Maharishi Valmik International Airport, adorned with the theme of Ramayana, set to welcome ninety flights, facilitating the influx of devotees and visitors from across the country.

Amidst the jubilation, the Surya Tilak ceremony holds special significance, a revered tradition where the first rays of the sun tenderly touch the forehead of Ram Lalla at the precise moment of 12.16 pm, marking the divine moment of his birth.

An integral part of the celebrations is the offering of Chappan Bhog, a grand feast comprising 56 delectable dishes, symbolising abundance and devotion. This elaborate feast is a testament to the rich culinary heritage associated with Ram Navami and serves as a token of reverence to the deity.

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Acharya Satyendra Das, the esteemed chief priest of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, expressed meticulous planning and arrangements ensuring that the festivities of Ram Navami resonate with unparalleled fervor and enthusiasm. This momentous occasion, steeped in tradition and spirituality, serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy and significance of Lord Ram in the hearts of millions.

Lord Ram receives Surya Tilak blessing

An extraordinary addition to the festivities, a Surya Tilak ceremony is set to grace Lord Ram's forehead for five minutes, commencing precisely at 12:16 pm.

Nripendra Mishra, Chairman of the Ram Mandir Nirman Samiti, shared insights into the meticulously planned event: "On Ram Navami, the gentle rays of the sun will bestow their blessing upon Lord Ram Lalla's forehead for approximately 5 minutes at 12:16 pm. Elaborate technical arrangements have been put in place for this celestial moment. Scientists are diligently working to ensure that this divine occurrence is presented with the utmost grandeur."

Mishra elaborated on the intricate system, stating, "Precision lenses and mirrors have been strategically positioned to harness natural sunlight, crafting the divine symbol during this auspicious occasion. The optical path, piping, and tip-tilt stages have been engineered meticulously, ensuring longevity and hassle-free maintenance."

Careful Preparations for Sacred Rites

In anticipation of the anticipated surge of devotees, the management of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra has extended the darshan hours at the revered Shri Ram Lalla temple in Ayodhya. Champat Rai, the General Secretary, announced that devotees can offer their prayers until 11 pm on Ram Navami.

The commencement of festivities was marked by the Mangala Aarti at 3.30 am on April 16, coinciding with the auspicious Brahma Muhurta. Following this, seamless execution of rituals such as Abhishek, Shringar, and Darshan ensued. Shringar Aarti was conducted at 5 am, followed by ongoing darshan and worship rituals.

On Ram Navami, the temple precincts will be abuzz with offerings and prayers, culminating in the Bhog and Shayan Aarti at 11:00 pm, subject to prevailing circumstances.

In anticipation of the significant congregation, arrangements have been meticulously made for prasad distribution post the Shayan Aarti, conveniently situated at the temple exit. Pilgrims are advised to securely deposit mobile phones, footwear, and other prohibited items before entering the temple premises.

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Anticipated arrival of 2.5 mn devotees

An estimated 2.5 million devotees are expected to converge upon Ayodhya over the next three days, drawn by the awe-inspiring spectacle and the opportunity to seek 'darshan' of Ram Lalla. Extensive arrangements have been meticulously orchestrated to facilitate their pilgrimage, ensuring seamless access through local transport and ample parking provisions.

Ayodhya is bracing itself for a significant influx of travelers. Ninety flights are scheduled to touch down at the Maharishi Valmik International Airport, adorned with the theme of Ramayana, symbolizing the spiritual significance of the journey. Commencing with the inaugural flight from Delhi, the airport now serves as a conduit for direct flights from 14 cities. With an average of 10 to 12 flights daily, the airport also anticipates the arrival of passengers aboard 1 or 2 chartered planes, specifically arranged for darshan.

Vinod Kumar, the Airport Managing Director, highlighted the extensive arrangements in place, with 50 flights and 40 chartered planes slated to land in Ayodhya until April 19 in anticipation of Ram Navami. These flights connect Ayodhya with key cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Patna, Jaipur, and Hyderabad.

“To accommodate the surge in passenger traffic, the airport features a VIP lounge, waiting area, 9 check-in counters, and 3 conveyor belts. Additionally, provisions have been made to ensure the comfort and accessibility of passengers, including a dedicated ramp for the disabled and local transport facilities available within the terminal vicinity,” Kumar elaborated.

- With inputs from agencies

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